Japanese hospitality

Whilst wandering around Lake Kawaguchi today we sat down to enjoy a random drink from a vending machine. As we were sitting enjoying the sun a Japanese lady suddenly appeared carrying a plastic bag. In halting English she started explaining about the local vineyard she worked at (owned?).

At that point she pulled a bottle of wine out of her bag. Fearing the start if the hard sell we asked how much. 2006 yen? No, 2006 vintage and not for sale, a present!

Of course, in Japan it is an insult to refuse a gift, so when in Japan...

To partially return the favour here's a quick wine review. The 2006 Chardonnay from the Suzuran Winery in Kawaguchiko is light on the nose with notes of grapefruit and figs. On the palate it's on the sweet side of dry and went really well with our noodle broth. Highly recommended.





I'm not entirely sure where you can buy it, but if you sit on a bench in Oishi, a nice lady will probably give you a bottle!

Location:Fujikawaguchiko,Japan